(1) The marriage may be solemnized at the office of the Marriage Officer, or at such other place within a reasonable distance therefrom as the parties may desire, and upon such conditions and the payment of such additional fees as may be prescribed.
(2) The marriage may be solemnized in any form which the parties may choose to adopt:
Provided that it shall not be complete and binding on the parties, unless each party says to the other in the presence of the Marriage Officer and the three witnesses and in any language understood by the parties,I. (A), take thee (B), to be my lawful wife (or husband).
Legal Commentary & Landmark Judgments: Section 12
Section 12 regulates the place and procedural solemnization of a marriage under the Special Marriage Act, permitting solemnization at the Marriage Officer's office or other convenient places, and prescribing the mandatory secular marriage formula.
If parties desire solemnization outside the registrar's office (e.g., at home or a venue), submit a formal requisition under Section 12(1) along with the prescribed travel and inspection fees. Ensure the mandatory spoken declaration is recorded in the official minutes.